Finding Opportunities in Fast-Growing Franchises

A would-be entrepreneur can go into business for himself or herself using one of several different tracks. He or she could build a new company from the ground up with a carefully laid-out business plan and a significant amount of hard work. Alternatively, a prospective business owner could purchase an existing company and continue to serve the current customer base—albeit with a few new personal touches. If neither of those options fit your needs, you may wish to consider buying into a franchise. Purchasing a franchise location—either brand-new or already established—could give you the freedom of working for yourself with the security of well-known brand and a proven business model.

In my practice as a business formation attorney, I have helped many clients meet their goals of owning and operating a successful franchise location. Doing so begins with selecting the company with which you would like to be associated. If you are thinking about opening a franchise, there are some fast-growing companies you may wish to consider:

Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches: Jimmy John’s was founded in Charleston, Illinois, in 1983 and began franchising 10 years later. The deli-style sandwich shop quickly became popular in college towns around the country, and, today, there are currently more than 2,500 franchise locations throughout the United States.

Anytime Fitness: Workout facilities and gyms are among the hottest franchises available in today’s market, as more and more people recognize the need for a healthier lifestyle. Based in Woodbury, Minnesota, Anytime Fitness offers members 24/7 access to more than 3,000 locations around the world—not too bad for a company that only existed for about 15 years.

Jan-Pro Cleaning Systems: Founded in 1991 in Providence, Rhode Island, Jan-Pro is one the fastest-growing franchises in any industry. The company provides residential and commercial cleaning services and currently boasts more than 10,000 franchise locations in North America. Jan-Pro offers franchise opportunities of various sizes, depending on the market and the objectives of the franchisee.

Sport Clips: What do you get when you cross a barbershop and a sports bar (minus the alcohol)? The answer may well be Sport Clips. Established in Houston in 1993 and franchising since 1995, Sport Clips caters primarily to men and boys by offering haircuts, hot towel treatments, and shaves in a sports-themed atmosphere. The company has grown to nearly 1,600 locations with more than two dozen outside the United States.

7-Eleven: Founded in 1927, The well-known convenience stores got their name when the Dallas-based company’s first locations expanded their hours to be open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. in 1946. While 7-Eleven stores are now open around the clock, the name has become synonymous with convenience stores. There now more than 8,300 7-Eleven franchise locations in the U.S. and nearly 60,000 worldwide.

Of course, this is just a short sampling of the dozens of fast-growing franchises available throughout the country and should not be construed as an advertisement or endorsement of these particular companies. If you have questions about choosing a franchise, contact an experienced Naperville business law attorney for guidance. With more than 40 years of experience, Attorney Denice Gierach will help you decide the best course of action for meeting your personal and professional goals. Call 630-756-1160 for a consultation today.